Fell Rescue column: Cavers advised to plan an escape

Published:20:00Thursday 05 January 2017

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We are one of a handful of teams who perform underground as well as surface rescues and as you can imagine these rescues can be very dangerous and exhausting situations, writes David Dennis of the Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue Association.

It is common for a major rescue to take 12 hours or more as well as being a huge logistical operation requiring large numbers of members. We have some world class cavers and cave divers many belonging to local caving and potholing clubs and their expertise and knowledge of local cave systems and their determination has saved many lives in this exhilarating yet strenuous and potentially dangerous activity.

Much of the Dales is underlain with limestone and that means we have many caving systems making the area a very popular destination for cavers and potholers from far and wide wanting to explore the wonders of our underground world.

Nidderdale is very much part of this caving scene not just with the Stump Cross Caverns Showcave but major systems such as Goyden Pot and Manchester Hole. Both locations having been the scene of rescues over the years.

There are at least 20 known and surveyed caves in Nidderdale alone.

Preparation and safety considerations are paramount in this activity and the following guidelines need addressing for a safe trip.

Always include experienced cavers in the party and seek advice of local experts beforehand.

Take notice of the local weather forecasts and ground conditions. Flooding can happen very quickly and violently.

Make sure you carry at least one headlamp for each person. Without light you are trapped.

Leave a note of your trip and latest time of return with a responsible person. Make sure they are aware how to contact the rescue teams. Confirm your safe exit.

Pick a cave or pothole within everyone’s capabilities and be sure of the route to avoid becoming lost.

Practice ladder and rope techniques above ground before use underground to ensure they are rigged properly before hanging your life on them, check that ropes are long enough and are knotted at the lower end.

An accident underground is easy – rescue is difficult.

Most accidents are caused by falls, loose boulders, rising water and exposure.

Your exit from the cave can take much more effort than entry – plan your trip accordingly.

Having mentioned cavers from afar, we recall an incident involving a renowned cave diver from Germany who found himself part of national caving folklore.

His diveline had become stuck trapping him with only a tiny gap where one of our members who was caving with him could reach through, they shook hands, thankfully they eventually overcame this horrific predicament and he came out alive.

Such is the black humour in the caving world, this section of the caving system became known as Dead Man’s Handshake.

We never determined whether the Yorkshire humour was understood but he certainly left the Dales much relieved.